Kylian Mbappé Already the Greatest Player in France’s History? Pascal Dupraz Says Yes

Kylian Mbappé Already the Greatest Player in France’s History? Pascal Dupraz Says Yes

By Paris Telegraph Sports Desk 11/07/2026

Focus Keyphrase: Kylian Mbappé greatest France player

French football coach and television pundit Pascal Dupraz has ignited fresh debate by declaring that Kylian Mbappé is already the greatest player in the history of the French national team, ranking him ahead of legends Zinedine Zidane and Michel Platini.

Speaking on RMC Sport’s “Les Grandes Gueules du Sport”, Dupraz argued that Mbappé’s extraordinary statistics, leadership qualities, and influence on the French national team place him above every player who has worn the famous blue jersey.

Mbappé’s Record-Breaking Numbers

At just 27 years old, Mbappé has already rewritten the French national team’s record books.

The France captain has made 104 international appearances, scoring 64 goals—making him the country’s all-time leading goalscorer—and has also provided 37 assists, another national team record.

According to Dupraz, these remarkable achievements make comparisons with previous French legends increasingly difficult.

“Mbappé scores 0.62 goals per game, while Zidane averaged only 0.29. Beyond the numbers, he perfectly embodies the captaincy. His leadership, his public statements, and the way he represents France are exceptional,” Dupraz said.

Leadership Beyond Statistics

While Mbappé’s goal-scoring ability is undeniable, Dupraz believes his leadership is equally important.

He contrasted Mbappé’s outspoken personality with Zidane’s more reserved style.

According to Dupraz, Zidane preferred to lead quietly and rarely sought the spotlight, whereas Mbappé willingly embraces responsibility both on and off the pitch.

The former coach believes today’s France captain has become the face of French football and represents a new generation of leadership.

Ahead of Zidane and Platini?

Dupraz went even further by suggesting that Mbappé has already surpassed both of France’s greatest football icons.

Zinedine Zidane remains one of football’s most celebrated players, leading France to the 1998 FIFA World Cup, UEFA Euro 2000, and the 2006 World Cup Final. During his international career, Zidane scored 31 goals and provided 25 assists in 108 appearances.

Meanwhile, Michel Platini, winner of three consecutive Ballon d’Or awards, inspired France to victory at UEFA Euro 1984, finishing his international career with 41 goals and 20 assists in 72 matches.

Despite these legendary accomplishments, Dupraz believes Mbappé has already overtaken both.

“In terms of character, he resembles Platini more than Zidane. Platini was a strong leader who fully embraced the captain’s role. Mbappé is ahead of both of them in every area,” Dupraz stated.

A Legacy Still Growing

Although Dupraz’s comments are certain to divide football supporters, Mbappé’s career is far from complete.

He became a FIFA World Cup champion in 2018 at just 19 years old, finished as a World Cup runner-up in 2022, and currently ranks among the greatest goalscorers in World Cup history.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, Mbappé has another opportunity to strengthen his legacy and potentially lead France to another world title.

If successful, the debate over the greatest player in French football history may become even more one-sided.

Whether supporters place Zidane, Platini, or Mbappé at the top, one fact is undeniable: Kylian Mbappé has already secured his place among the greatest footballers France has ever produced.

By Paris Telegraph Sports Desk